At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to manage driver performance and ensure safety standards are met.
- Company: First Rail London, part of FirstGroup, a leading rail operator in the UK.
- Benefits: Free travel on TfL network, discounts on season tickets, and exclusive employee benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on train operations while enjoying great perks and career growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing teams and knowledge of traincrew practices required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
First Rail London (FRL) is the train operating company responsible for running the London Overground network under a concession agreement with Transport for London (TfL). The concession began in May 2026. FirstRail London is part of FirstGroup, one of the leading rail operators and one of the largest bus operators in the UK.
About the job
Lead a Driver Management team to ensure that the required competency and fitness assessments for drivers are undertaken and that drivers are deployed in an effective manner that ensures delivery of the train plan and in a manner that complies with all driver agreements.
Responsibilities
- Manage the deployment of drivers to ensure the business needs are met in terms of efficient and economical operation.
- Ensure that base rosters are compliant with laid down standards and agreements in liaison with the Head of Rostering.
- Carry out the provision of the disciplinary procedures, welfare arrangements and health and safety at work as delegated.
- Ensure that Driver Management team have robust plans established for ensuring that all fitness for duty checks, competency assessment and monitoring activities of drivers are carried out to the frequency specified in and in accordance with the methods set out in applicable company procedures.
- In conjunction with the appropriate Driver Management team, formulate plans where it is necessary to introduce additional monitoring provisions for specified drivers.
- Contribute to the preparation of the depot cost budget and resource plans and monitor emerging trends and take corrective action as necessary.
- Lead and direct the Driver Management team to implement the operational standards (developed by the Operations Standards Manager) at Driver depots.
- Chair consultation and bargaining meetings with depot staff representatives as directed by the Head of Operations.
- Ensure depot safety checks are carried out as specified in company procedures.
- Manage all non-staff costs at each depot to ensure that business needs are met economically.
- Ensure Driver Managers maintain competency in conjunction with the Operations Development manager.
- Ensure remedial actions from all audits are addressed and closed out.
- Lead and develop the Driver Management to ensure ARL business aims and objectives are met.
Minimum requirements
Experience
- Be capable of improving levels of driver performance in terms of safety and discipline and to manage effectively staff inter-relationships within traincrew depots and between depot staff and other members of staff.
Knowledge
- Good knowledge of traction/traincrew matters, including conditions of service, rostering practices, disciplinary procedure and bargaining procedures.
Skills and competencies
- Certification in rules and regulations to driver competence and knowledge of traction instructions (desirable).
Education
- GCSE Maths and English at Grade C or above.
Location
New Cross Gate Station
Benefits
- Free Travel for you and a nominated person at your address on TfL Network - this alone is worth a potential total of £5,200 per annum.
- 75% discount off season tickets and leisure travel on other Train Operating Companies.
- Discounts on European rail services after 1 year of service.
- First Xclusives – a benefits portal offering a wide range of benefits and discounts.
- Employee Assistance Programme - 24hr helpline, covering a multitude of subjects.
Operations Manager employer: FirstGroup Internal
First Rail London is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can lead a dedicated Driver Management team and contribute to the smooth operation of the London Overground network. With benefits like free travel on the TfL network, substantial discounts on season tickets, and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, we prioritise employee well-being and growth. Join us at New Cross Gate Station, where your efforts will directly impact the safety and efficiency of our services while enjoying a supportive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
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We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at FirstGroup Internal, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
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How to prepare for a job interview at FirstGroup Internal
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
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In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to FirstGroup Internal.
